Super typhoon may enter PAR next week

MANILA, Philippines — The tropical storm being monitored outside the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) is likely to develop into a super typhoon next week, according to the state weather bureau.

Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration weather specialist Leanne Loreto said on Thursday that the weather disturbance may enter PAR either Wednesday or Thursday next week.

“We see this tropical storm intensifying further in the coming days and it is possible that it will enter our area of responsibility by the middle of next week,” Loreto added.

According to her, the tropical storm, which will be named “Inday,” may further intensify into a typhoon or super typhoon category as it enters PAR.

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“There is still a high level of uncertainty regarding the potential scenario for this new tropical cyclone.

Based on our observations, this storm will draw in the southwest monsoon [habagat],” Loreto said.

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Even with Tropical Depression “Henry” already outside of PAR as of Wednesday night, weather specialist John Manalo said the southwest monsoon would prevail over Palawan, Occidental Mindoro, Antique, Panay Island, Zamboanga Peninsula, Tawi-Tawi and Basilan, possibly bringing rains.

Easterlies or the warm winds coming from the Pacific Ocean may also cause humid weather or cloudiness in Quezon Province, Bicol Region, Eastern Visayas and Caraga. —HOLLY BACAY, DIANNE SAMPANG